A poet's quest

1937 Erika S

Gorgeous machine. I don’t usually put up with misalignment issues, but it’s a great typewriter that’s hard to put down. It was carefully packed and ready to use straight out of the box, having a fresh ribbon. That’s surprising: I usually have to clean and oil machines upon arrival. But there was a bigger surprise. After typing a page, I saw that there were barely any indentations on the backup sheet. The platen feels rubbery, and may have been replaced.

The exposed spools and stubby return lever remind me of my Corona Four, but this is a different animal altogether. It reflects an added degree of craftsmanship and engineering. Far from me to diminish my lovely Four, but there’s something about this Erika that eludes definition–something that draws me to it.

Misalignment issues are usually a deal-breaker, especially on days in which I insist on mechanical precision–days where typeface must reflect attempts at precision of language–but in this instance I see it more as a character trait trumped by aesthetics and an unusual personality. It’s a German bombshell with perfectly crooked teeth.

About me

I am an author, artist and journalist living in San Diego. I love typewriters, fountain pens, bamboo fly rods and first editions. My first poetry collection, Postcards from the Tattooed Man’s Chest, is available for sale here in limited quantities. My latest collection, The Elastic Dome, is available on Amazon.

About me

I am an author, artist and journalist living in San Diego. I love typewriters, fountain pens, bamboo fly rods and first editions. My first poetry collection, Postcards from the Tattooed Man’s Chest, is available for sale here in limited quantities. My latest collection, The Elastic Dome, is available on Amazon.